Red chilli pickle

Product Name: Red Chilli Pickle

Overview: Red Chilli Pickle is a fiery and flavorful Indian condiment made from fresh red chillies, which are preserved in a blend of aromatic spices and oil. This pickle adds a spicy kick to any meal and is cherished for its robust flavor profile. It is a popular accompaniment in Indian cuisine, enhancing the taste of various dishes.

Ingredients:

• Fresh red chillies
• Mustard oil
• Vinegar or lemon juice
• Salt
• Turmeric powder
• Fenugreek seeds
• Fennel seeds
• Mustard seeds
• Nigella seeds (kalonji)
• Asafoetida (Hing)
• Red chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
• Cumin seeds

Preparation:

1. Selection and Cleaning: Choose fresh, ripe red chillies. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt and impurities. Dry them completely using a clean cloth or by air drying.
2. Cutting: Remove the stems and cut the chillies into halves or desired size. Optionally, remove some seeds to reduce the heat.
3. Drying: Spread the cut chillies on a clean cloth or tray and sun-dry for a few hours to reduce moisture content.
4. Spice Preparation: Lightly roast the whole spices (fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, nigella seeds, cumin seeds) and grind them into a coarse powder.
5. Mixing: In a large bowl, mix the dried red chillies with salt, turmeric powder, ground spices, and asafoetida.
6. Oil Heating: Heat mustard oil until it reaches its smoking point, then let it cool slightly.
7. Combining: Pour the cooled mustard oil over the chilli and spice mixture, ensuring the chillies are well coated. Add vinegar or lemon juice to enhance tanginess and aid preservation.
8. Maturation: Transfer the mixture to clean, dry jars. Seal the jars and let the pickle mature for a few days to weeks, allowing the flavors to develop. Shake the jars occasionally to ensure even coating of spices and oil.
9. Storage: Store the jars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Taste and Texture:

• Taste: Spicy and tangy with a robust, savory flavor. The mustard oil and spices add depth and complexity, while the vinegar or lemon juice provides a balanced tang.
• Texture: The chillies are slightly firm, soaked in flavorful oil and spices, making them succulent and well-infused with the spicy mixture.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Rich in Vitamins: Red chillies are high in vitamins A and C, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
• Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals.
• Digestive Health: The spices and chillies aid in digestion and can help stimulate appetite.
• Anti-inflammatory: Certain compounds in chillies and spices have anti-inflammatory properties.

Usage:

• Accompaniment: Serve alongside Indian meals like rice, roti, paratha, or curry.
• Flavor Enhancer: Adds a burst of spice to bland dishes.
• Snack: Enjoy small amounts with snacks or as a spicy dip.

Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep in airtight jars to maintain freshness.
• Ensure the pickle is always submerged in oil to prevent spoilage.
• Refrigerate after opening to extend shelf life.
• Properly stored, Red Chilli Pickle can last for several months.

Conclusion: Red Chilli Pickle is a vibrant and spicy condiment that adds a fiery kick to any meal. Its rich and complex flavor profile, combined with the health benefits of chillies and spices, makes it a versatile and cherished addition to Indian cuisine. Whether as an accompaniment or a flavor enhancer, this pickle is sure to elevate the taste of your dishes.